First surgical implant of FENIX® Continence Restoration System at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital

HOUSTON, May 12, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Dr. Diego C. Marines, colon and rectal surgeon at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital performed the hospital's first implant of the FENIX® Continence Restoration System for the treatment of Accidental Bowel Leakage (ABL) this year.

Watch a video about Texas' first FENIX continence restoration procedure performed by Dr. Diego Marines at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital.

Dr. Diego Marines, board certified and fellowship trained colon and rectal surgeon at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital, performed the hospital’s first implant of the FENIX® Continence Restoration System for the treatment of Accidental Bowel Leakage.

Marines is certified by the American Board of Surgery and completed his fellowship training in this specialty at Rutgers University. He uses laparoscopic and robotic techniques for the treatment of colorectal diseases that result in decreased complications, less pain, better oncological outcomes, and faster return to work.

"Now we have an option for ABL patients who haven't been candidates for other treatments or have not been satisfied with the results of other treatments," said Dr. Marines. "Current treatment options are very limited with many patients ultimately requiring a colostomy."

The disease Accidental Bowel Leakage (ABL) affects an estimated 30 million people in the U.S. and Europe alone. ABL results from damage or weakening of the anal sphincter muscle. The impact of ABL on patients' quality of life is debilitating, causing absence from work, constant risk of embarrassment, and the inability to engage in routine activities.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Marines or to find a physician at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital, call 281.737.2500.

About Houston Methodist Willowbrook HospitalHouston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital is a 312 bed, not-for-profit, faith-based hospital, which is part of Houston Methodist. The hospital has expanded in Northwest Houston to serve the comprehensive health care needs of the growing community.

Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital has been named a Magnet recognized health care facility by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program®.

Houston Methodist Willowbrook is ranked No. 8 in the Houston metro area and No. 19 in Texas by U.S. News & World Report as a "Best Hospital" in 2016.